Mini Penny Blog

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Birchbox Media Breakfast

This morning I was invited to attend the BirchBox Media Breakfast at NoMI Kitchen downtown. As many of my long-time readers know, I am an ex-subscriber to this product, so I wasn't really sure what I was going to be in for. Naturally, I was excited to meet up with other Chicago bloggers — since I still feel new here, I haven't gotten many opportunities to meet my peers.

Aside from the obvious — a room full of lovely bloggers — the restaurant itself was so beautiful. It overlooked Michigan Avenue and the Water Tower. NoMI was a great venue for the breakfast and I am glad to have discovered it.

I was greeted with lots of smiles and introductions (a lot to take in considering my still humble beginnings here in Chicago). Everyone was dressed for spring and looked wonderful. Heading into the dining area, we each had a BirchBox at our seats, along with drinks, followed by a wonderful spread of breakfast goodies.

Firstly, the chocolate croissants were to die for. I must figure out how to make something of this sort (hey, maybe even with Nutella...?). I wanted to try everything on the menu, but ended up ordering the omelet — sans chorizo of course. I couldn't help but to swoon over the potatoes — I'm admittedly a sucker for spuds.

Overall, I loved the breakfast. The company was fantastic, I met some admirable bloggers and entrepreneurs, and filled my tummy with delish food.

Onto the goodies!

We were given a complimentary BirchBox along with a cute reusable bag, a three-month subscription, and (drumroll please)...

A three-month subscription to give away! I've decided to give it to one of my readers. I will be starting this giveaway here in the next couple of days, so keep your eyes peeled!

I think it's important to point out that I am a previous subscriber to BirchBox. Tish turned me onto it a long time ago and I happily jumped aboard. After a few months, I decided to stop my boxes due to the fact that I felt dissatisfied by the samples. It's been almost a year since I gave up on them, so this is an opportunity for them to prove themselves to me!

In the box I received during today's breakfast, I got some usable goodies that I look forward to giving a shot.

Color Club Nail Laquer in Disco Nap - I was excited to see Color Club on my card and was really hoping for the Age of Aquarius color. I was a little disappointed to receive the Disco Nap, but only because I already own an identical color. Either way, the coverage is great and is has a wonderful sparkle. I added stripes on my ring finger for an accent. Pick it up at Birchbox for $8.

Lulu Organics Lavender + Clary Sage Hair Powder - I'm a big believer in dry shampoo, especially since I cut my fringe. I love this packaging and am looking forward to giving it a shot. Updates soon! Pick up the full size here for $30.

Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash - I'm always on the lookout for new face washes. My skin is so sensitive (plus I have combination skin), that I find it difficult to settle on something. This wash is nice and smooth with a great lather. Pick up the full size here for $19.50.

Stila Sparkle Waterproof Liquid Eye Linerin Starry - Even though it takes two coats to get a nice solid line, this stuff's staying power is killer. I would love to try the non-sparkle version! Definite thumbs up. Pick it up here for $22.

And the bonus in the box was another Twistband. I had one of these from my old box (in black) and I loved it — but lost it. So goes the way of hair ties and bobby pins.

Overall, I'd say this is a good box. I look forward to seeing what the next three months bring to my door step and will certainly share with you!